Plasma TV - about the technology used in Plasma TV's

Technical information...

How long will my plasma TV last?

Manufacturers are quoting 30,000+ hours, so anywhere between 10 and 25 years, dependent on your daily hourly use.

Do plasma screens suffer from image burn, and how can it be prevented?

Yes, plasma screens are susceptible to image retention, which can occur if the same image is displayed continuously for a long duration. The most common causes are icons or logos. The best way to prevent this is to avoid displaying static images for long durations, also most plasma screens now have what's called white screen option or pixel orbiter to counteract this.

Do I need a tuner box for my plasma or LCD TV screen?

Only if you do not have a Digital connection i.e. One of the following:

Sky, Cable or Digital Set top box, or a Freeview Box
You can also receive Terrestrial TV through a VCR

Can I connect my computer to a Plasma or LCD TV?

Yes, in fact, this is one of the many benefits of Plasma & LCD technology in that your screen can become a large display monitor by making a simple VGA connection and is great for play station, or surfing the web.

What is more important to consider when deciding on what type of plasma or LCD TV to buy, contrast ratio or resolution?

They are both important factors, although it is a combination (amongst other things) of both which determine the picture quality. For example, higher resolution screens are ideal when displaying computer fed images i.e. Excel spreadsheet or maybe CAD documents, however a Plasma TV showing a movie on DVD & video may not need the higher resolution.

I have heard that you have to re-gas plasma screens is this true?

No this is a myth, you will never have to re-gas a plasma or LCD screen. Read our Plasma TV facts article for more information.

Warranty and maintenance

What sort of warranty do I get when I purchase a Plasma or LCD Monitor or Home Cinema System from Plasma Clearance?

New screens and home cinema surround sound is covered by the manufacturer's standard 12 months or 2 year warranty. Used screens and home cinema surround sound is covered by our standard return to base 3, 6, or 12 months warranty.

What is the best way to clean my Plasma or LCD TV?

Before cleaning be sure to unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

Cleaning the display panel body and remote
Do not under any circumstances use solvents such as benzine of thinner for cleaner. Use of such liquids may cause deterioration or peeling of the paint from the display. Wipe the display and remote control gently with a soft cloth. In case of excessive dirt buildup, dampen a soft cloth with a diluted neutral cleaning detergent and after wringing the cloth thoroughly, wipe the component and then dry it with a dry soft cloth.

Cleaning the screen
After dusting, wipe the screen gently using a soft cloth. Do not use tissue or a rough cloth as the surface of the screen is easily scratched.

Cleaning the vents
As a general rule, use a vacuum cleaner about once a month to clean the vents on the rear of the panel of build up (set the vacuum cleaner to its weakest setting when doing this).

Other installation tips & frequently asked questions...

What sort of cables will I need to buy to connect my Plasma or LCD TV?

Firstly, we would recommend that in order to achieve the very best from your system, cables are considered as an important and integral part of your system. Some Plasma/LCD TVs come complete with Scart connection cables, the majority however, require cables to be purchased separately and so you will need either BNC to Scart, Phono to Scart Phono to Phono etc and your Home Cinema System.